Does the addition of Myofascial Release and Static Stretching to Nighttime Bracing reduce the rate of long-term relapse in Ponseti-treated clubfoot? Does this combined intervention improve long-term mobility and quality of life in children with idiopathic clubfoot?

Researcher will compare the group receiving Myofascial Release with night time bracing o the group receiving Static Stretching along with Nighttime to see the effect of both intervention reduces relapse rates and improves functional outcomes.

Participants will:

Receive Myofascial Release and Static Stretching therapy sessions Use Nighttime Bracing as prescribed Undergo follow-up assessments to evaluate relapse occurrence, mobility, and quality of life

The Ponseti method is highly effective for correcting clubfoot initially, though relapse occurs in 30-40% of cases, commonly manifesting as equinus, adductus, or dynamic supination. Factors such as non-compliance with foot abduction orthosis (FAO), incomplete correction, or undiagnosed neuromuscular conditions contribute to relapse. Ensuring parent education, routine follow-ups, and timely bracing adjustments is crucial to reduce these risks.

Treatment options for clubfoot include repeat casting, Achilles tendon lengthening, or tibialis anterior tendon transfer, often avoiding extensive surgery. The Ponseti method, involving weekly manipulations, casting, Achilles tenotomy, Kinesio taping and bracing, achieves up to 98% initial correction but has a 37% relapse rate. Similarly, the French functional method, using manipulations, strapping, and exercises, shows comparable success but also struggles with recurrence.

MFR improves soft tissue flexibility by addressing residual tightness in the foot and lower leg, restoring tissue length, reducing stiffness, and enhancing blood flow for better alignment and functional mobility. Physiotherapy sessions focus on Achilles tendon stretching, mobilization of the tibiotalar, subtalar, and midtarsal joints, and strengthening of the peroneal muscles to promote eversion and stabilization. Proprioceptive exercises, balance training, and functional activities such as weight-bearing and gait training further support motor development. Nighttime bracing maintains the foot in a corrected position, ensuring that soft tissues and joints stay aligned during periods of inactivity.

This integrated approach significantly reduces the risk of relapse, enhances the effectiveness of Ponseti treatment, and improves the child's mobility and quality of life. MFR is a manual therapy technique targeting fascial restrictions to improve mobility, flexibility, and circulation. Fascia, a dense connective tissue surrounding muscles, bones, and organs, can contribute to stiffness and decreased range of motion (ROM) when restricted, increasing the risk of relapse in post-clubfoot treatment Static stretching is commonly used to enhance muscle-tendon flexibility and ROM by modifying passive muscle properties and stretching tolerance. While short-term stretching has limited effects on muscle-tendon unit stiffness (MTS), long-term stretching can significantly reduce stiffness, especially in healthy young individuals. In clubfoot management, static stretching of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex and plantar fascia helps prevent recurrence by maintaining tissue elongation, particularly when combined with nighttime bracing.

The aim of this randomized controlled trial to check the Effect of Myofascial Release and Static Stretching along with Nighttime Bracing in Long-Term Relapse Prevention of Ponseti Treated Clubfoot to optimize long-term mobility, enhance the quality of life for children with idiopathic clubfoot, and reduce the healthcare burden associated with relapse and disability.